Book Pairings (1)

Welcome to a new posting. In the library world, we talk about Book Pairings all the time. There are libraries that bundle fiction and nonfiction books on the same subject together for check-out.

In this case, these are two recent nonfiction books that I read:

I read Give Us the Vote first, which really helped me when I read Stamped a few days later.

I knew what Jason Reynolds was referring to in terms of voter suppression and more because I had just finished this book. I was happy I had the extra knowledge that was fleshed out a little bit more. 

These two books both deal with race and anti-racism. They are both excellent reads.

Hopefully, I'll be sharing more Book Pairings in the near future...

Graphic Novel Review: Stepping Stones

When Jen and her mom move from the city to the country, everything changes. It's not just the move. Now they're living with her mom's new boyfriend. And his kids will spend weekends with them. 

Life on the farm is different. There are so many chores - plus there's selling their goods at the market. Jen's awesome at art, so creating a great looking sign is right up her alley. But she's terrible at math, so helping run the cash register gives her anxiety. 

Jen's having a hard time learning where she fits in...

Review: Heart So Broken and Fierce

* Book 2 in the Cursebreakers Trilogy *

The curse is broken in Emberfall, but the royal troubles are not over. Rumors swirl that Prince Rhen has a half brother. No one knows his identity, but rumors swirl that he has magical abilities. Prince Rhen's determined to locate his half-brother and kill him. He can't have magic ruin the kingdom - again.

Grey's been hiding since they destroyed Lilith. He's keeping his secret, the kingdom, and his brother safe.

But forces beyond their control pull them together. Grey must decide his future - no only for himself but for his band of followers.

My Thoughts: I really loved this book. The perspectives shifted from the first book, which took me by surprise. And it took me a few pages to get used to the idea, by then I was hooked and had to read immediately. I loved learning more about Grey. I loved his loyalty and his willingness to put the kingdom first. I admired him and his great big heart. I felt terrible for Lia Mara for her family situation, although I admired her strength and determination. I loved her moments with Grey and her sister. I loved seeing favorite characters. I loved the action and the plot twists that I didn't see coming. I can't wait to read what happens next!!!

Cover Thoughts: Fantastic and matches the first cover really well
Source: ARC from BEA 2019
Library Recommendation: This series is a must have series for your public libraries (as is the authors non-fantasy books).

Picture Book Wednesday: Ronan the Librarian

Ronan is a barbarian - gathering and stealing treasure. One day he finds a book - which no one else wants. He can't believe it. But then he starts reading and can't stop. And he tries to share his love of books with others...

Not surprisingly, I loved this book. I loved the message about books as treasure. And sharing books. I love how Ronan hooked others on reading. Plus the illustrations are great. 

And best of all, there's a sequel coming!

Librarian Recommendation: Highly Recommended for your school and public libraries!

Top Ten Tuesday: Books that Made Me Smile

This week's Topic is Books that Made Me Smile - for this I'm going with books that left me with a book hangover! Because they were SO good. And it's books I've read this year.

And I'm stopping at 10...

Review: Playing Hurt

Star basketball player Chelsea "Nitro" Keyes had the promise of a full ride to college—and everyone's admiration back home. Then she took a horrible fall during senior year. Now a metal plate holds her together and she feels like a stranger in her own family.

That summer, Chelsea's dad hires Clint, a nineteen-year-old ex-hockey player and "boot camp" trainer, to work with her at a northern Minnesota lake resort. As they grow close, Chelsea finds that Clint's haunted by his own tragedy. Will their romance end up hurting them all over again—or finally heal their heartbreak?

- summary from publisher

My Thoughts: I really liked this book, even though it does contain cheating. I loved the exploring during vacation - and the different outdoor activities (hiking, kayaking...). I enjoyed the pull between Chelsea and Clint. I felt badly for both the main characters as they struggled through their grief. But I did love their determination and strength. I like how open they became with each other as they spent more time together. I felt terrible for Chelsea as she struggled with finding herself in her family - particularly with her father. I did love her brother - he was great. I'm eager to see where the next book goes.

Cover Thoughts: Cute
Source: eARC for review
First Published: Published March 8th 2011 by Flux 
But it's been updated for the re-release.

This one is on the line of New Adult and YA 

In My Shop: Christmas in July

It's one of my favorite times of year - when I start thinking about Christmas.

I love Christmas. And making gifts for people makes me happy (when they come out well.)

Maybe something I made is perfect for someone you know.

I've got Ornaments 

Here's a Mr. Darcy Ornament

Gift Tags

Gingerbread Soap

and more!

Plus new items will be going up monthly in the shop.

Like these items? Take a look. And maybe give my shop a favorite.